LYCOMING COLLEGE MOURNS LOSS OF FOOTBALL PLAYER

Cause of death is bloodstream infection caused by staphyloccus aureus (MRSA).

WILLIAMSPORT, PA – Ricky Lannetti of Philadelphia, a senior at Lycoming College and a wide receiver on the Warrior football team died of an sudden, unexpected illness Saturday evening, December 6, 2003, in Williamsport, Pa. He was 21 years old.

According to the Coroner, Charles Kiessling, he had been admitted to the Hospital at 7 a.m. Saturday morning and died at 7:36 p.m.   The cause of death is unconfirmed.

The autopsy report on Monday December 8 gave the cause as a bloodstream infection caused by Staphyloccus aureus (MRSA).

According to health officials, death by a staph infection is a rare occurrence. Health officials did not suggest any course of action for the college. Students with special concerns have been advised to see the College Health Services or their private physican.

The funeral is scheduled for Friday, December 12.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of this fine young man and outstanding football player, “ said Dr. James E. Douthat, President of Lycoming College. “Our thoughts are with his family.”

“This is a sudden loss for all of us. Ricky was not only a fine student-athlete but also an important member of the campus community,” said Frank Girardi, head football coach and director of athletics. “He was an inspiration to us as a team and the support he had from our student body can’t be put into words. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

Lannetti was the Warriors’ top receiver this season with 70 catches for 955 yards and five touchdowns. He set two new school records during the regular season with 16 catches in one game and 65 catches for the season. Lannetti was named to the All-Middle Atlantic Conference first-team as a receiver and to the second-team as a kick returner. For his career, Lannetti caught 100 passes for 1,423 yards and eight touchdowns. He returned 90 punts for 772 yards and two touchdowns; and 45 kickoffs for 987 yards.

Lannetti had played in his first NCAA playoff game a week ago, making five catches for 40 yards in Lycoming’ 13-7 overtime victory over East Texas Baptist. The Warriors were prepared to host Bridgewater College (Va.) this afternoon for a quarterfinal game, but the game was postponed due to unplayable field conditions. The game has been rescheduled and will be played at 12 noon on Sunday, December 7.

Earlier this evening Coach Girardi talked with the football team and they decided that Ricky would want them to play this game.

Clarke Chapel on the Lycoming College campus was open throughout the evening with counselors on hand to help students.

For more information about staphyloccus aureus (MRSA).